Now, the WWE has confirmed ... Mae, who was in hospice care, died last night. Her cause of death was not revealed.

Young was a trailblazer who wrestled for 8 DECADES!!!

In fact, Mae and fellow pioneer female wrestler The Fabulous Moolah returned to the WWE back in 1999 -- when they were both in their 70s -- and were involved in numerous iconic moments like being powerbombed through a table by the Dudley Boyz ... and the birth of the "hand" icon.

WWE superstar John Cena was in NYC this morning ... and paid his respects to Young -- calling her a consumate professional and a wonderful person.